March is MS awareness month and here at Yoga Moves MS we are happy to announce several upcoming events.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis is a neurodegenerative autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). In people with MS, immune cells enter the CNS and attack the fatty myelin that coats and protects the nerves in the spinal cord and brain. These damaged areas are called lesions. They disrupt the messages traveling along the nerve fiber like a frayed wire. The CNS controls every part of the body, which is why people with MS can have such a broad array of symptoms depending on which part of the CNS has been attacked. The relapsing form of the condition is characterized by acute onset of symptoms (called relapse) followed by a complete or partial lessening of symptoms (called remission.) Progressive forms of the condition is characterized by steadily worsening symptoms without remission.
Facts about MS
- MS is three times more prevalent in women than men
- MS is more prevalent the farther from the equator you live during childhood and adolescence
- There is now a confirmed link between EBV (the virus that causes mononucleosis) and the onset of MS
- MS is most commonly diagnosed with an MRI and by examining the spinal fluid
- St Lidwina of Schiedam in Holland had the first documented case of MS in the early 15th century
Yoga Moves MS Events for MS Awareness Month
Stretching from a Physical Therapy and Yoga Therapy Perspective
With Physical Therapist Gretchen Hawley and YMMS founder Mindy Eisenberg
Saturday March 11 at 1p.m. EST
In this online event, Dr. Gretchen Hawley from the MSing Link discusses what physically happens to your muscles when you stretch and gives tips on how to best stretch from a physical therapy perspective. Yoga Moves MS founder Mindy Eisenberg explains how yoga classes can complement the work patients do with their physical therapists and improve strength, flexibility, proprioception and joint alignment.
Music Therapy for People with MS
With Music Therapist Betsy Harman
Monday March 27 at Noon EST
We’re delighted to bring music therapist Betsy Harman back after her warm reception at December’s Holistic Health Forum to explain the benefits of music therapy for people with MS. Music therapy can help with gait regulation, memory function, as well as anxiety and depression. Betsy will be leading participants through music therapy exercises so you can experience the benefits for yourself.
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